Ever since Disney started expanding the Star Wars universe, one type of story has continued to be missed: horror. Since the TV shows and movies can’t do it, it appears Marvel Comics is taking the first crack at it via Star Wars: Darth Maul – Black, White & Red #1. The series starts this week with a story by Benjamin Percy and Stefano Raffaele, focusing on an evil that surpasses anything the Sith can dream up. That’s right; there is a group out there that is far more evil and abides by the rule of chaos.
Falling under the “Black, White & Red” line, this issue is quite literally rendered with only black, white, and red. Darth Maul is, of course, a suitable focus for the line, given his red lightsaber and red skin. He’s also facing red creatures of chaos, which are quite haunting. Think Cthulu in space, and you’ll get the idea.
Star Wars: Darth Maul – Black, White & Red #1 opens with Darth Sidious informing Darth Maul of a prisoner ship that holds incredibly powerful creatures that must be reined in. Darth Maul quickly assumes Sidious wants to use these creatures to his own ends, but upon taking up the mission, it’s quite clear whatever these things are, they are far too dangerous for even a Sith to control. Maul soon gets on the ship and must face three creatures with differing abilities.
End call, end call!
Credit: Marvel
Percy hits a home run very much, as far as horror is concerned. The creatures have varying abilities, and their goal is truly frightening. Raffaele designs three very different creatures, each with varying mind-bending powers. Percy reminds us that the Force isn’t just about fighting ability, as Maul must use it to avoid going mad or worse.
As a one-shot, you’ll be on the edge of your seat from cover to cover, with a satisfying end. Maul must avoid death and danger in varying degrees as he goes deeper into the dark, depowered ship. His amazing fighting ability is put to the test, but his reasoning and ability to break away from an order from his master. It all culminates in a final choice to fight or do the right thing, which leads to a surprising choice. This story reveals a different side to Darth Maul, which enriches the character.
My only gripe is a somewhat ridiculous final moment that should have taken Darth Maul’s life. Sure, this is Space Wizards stuff, but it’s still a bit far-fetched that he can make it out alive. I guess the Force is the answer to anything.
If you’re looking for Star Wars horror, Star Wars: Darth Maul – Black, White & Red #1 has it and then some. Percy is expanding on truly horrific things in the universe while further defining Darth Maul as an ultimate adversary and a Sith of some reason. Expect chills, thrills, and a satisfying expansion of the Star Wars universe.
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